FORMER FLORIDA GATOR FOOTBALL STAR FOUND DEAD OF APPARENT SUICIDE
Reported by Victor Ochieng
Chris Johnson, a former football player with the Florida Gators, was found dead after what an Allegheny County, PA medical examiner has termed a suicide incident, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. After the player’s body was found on Saturday, examinations were carried out and a preliminary report released on Sunday, indicating that he died on Friday from what was clearly a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The 22-year-old football player’s body was recovered from a car in Churchill, east of Pittsburgh.
Besides playing for the Gators as a defensive back and later as a running back, Johnson also played for FCS Duquesne as a defensive back. He left for Duquesne University shortly after he was ejected from a game the Gators were playing against the Louisville Cardinals during the 2013 Sugar Bowl. The player threw a punch at an opponent who gave him a surprise onside kick. While with the Duquesne football team, Johnson managed 104 tackles and forced two fumbles.
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The news of his death was met with great shock by family and the football fraternity.
“When I texted with him on Wednesday, it was all good. You wouldn’t have known anything,” Justin Wentworth, Johnson’s former high school coach, told the Star Banner. “He said everything was going good—typical upbeat, ‘Juice’ stuff. Getting this news hurts deep. It’s a knife to the heart.”
Johnson was given the nickname ‘Juice’ for his excellent performance as a running back during his high school days. His coaches also believed that he somewhat resembled the retired football running back, O.J. Simpson.
Jerry Schmitt, the Duquesne football coach, praised Johnson for his role in the team and his passion for the game. He extended his condolences to the family on behalf of the team.
“Everyone associated with the Duquesne football program is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Chris,” Schmitt said in a statement. “Chris was a passionate football player who was also a great teammate, who was loved by many. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Chris’ family at this difficult time.”
Former Florida defensive tackle Dominique Easley, who’s currently a New England Patriots defensive end,tweeted: “R.I.P Ju man they ain’t lying when they say the good die young forreal #juiceman #rip.”
The football speedster will be remembered for his great performances but will leave many speculating the reason why he killed himself, if he actually did.
Former Florida linebacker Jelani Jenkins, who’s currently with the Miami Dolphins, first tweeted “R.I.P. Ju man” and later posted another tweet saying “Can’t even sleep, still in shock.”